How many mobile phones can you bring from abroad to Pakistan?

FBR Relaxes Restrictions on Bringing Mobile Phones from Abroad: A Relief for Travelers

In a major shift, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has withdrawn its controversial notification that imposed strict limitations on the number of mobile phones a traveler could bring from abroad. This decision has come as a significant relief to those traveling internationally, as they are now allowed to bring two mobile phones as per the existing regulations from 2006. in this article we will discuss about How many mobile phones can you bring from abroad to Pakistan.

The Withdrawal of the Notification

The FBR’s decision to revoke the notification, which was issued on December 9, was triggered by incomplete consultations, as per sources within the FBR. The original notification had imposed a ban on travelers bringing more than one mobile phone under the baggage scheme. While the ban was framed as a measure to curb smuggling and control commercial imports disguised as personal baggage, the lack of thorough discussion around the move led to its quick retraction.

Under the new revision, travelers arriving from abroad will still be permitted to bring two mobile phones, as per the longstanding 2006 baggage regulations. This change comes after the FBR recognized the confusion and backlash generated by the abrupt imposition of stricter limits earlier this month.

Initial Restrictions and Their Impact

The original notification, issued on December 9, 2024, prohibited travelers from bringing more than one mobile phone for personal use, regardless of whether the items were intended for personal or commercial purposes. The regulation also stipulated that any items valued above $1,200 would be classified as commercial imports, requiring the payment of taxes, duties, and fines for clearance. More troubling for travelers was the stipulation that any additional mobile phones brought into the country would be confiscated by the FBR, regardless of the traveler’s intent.

This notification also impacted travelers bringing back gifts or phones for family members. Many travelers had expressed concerns that the new rule would significantly disrupt their plans, as it failed to account for multiple devices that could be used within a family. The FBR’s sudden change created confusion among citizens who had already made travel plans based on previous regulations.

FBR’s Ongoing Efforts to Curb Commercial Imports

Despite the easing of restrictions for personal items, the FBR’s broader aim remains to reduce commercial imports disguised as personal baggage. The FBR had issued a draft of proposed amendments to the Baggage Rules of 2006, seeking to tighten rules for personal imports. The amendments were open for public feedback for a period of seven days, with the final regulations set to be implemented after the review period.

These proposed changes would limit the number of goods individuals could bring back from abroad without facing additional scrutiny or taxes. They were seen as part of a larger effort to address the increasing influx of commercial items being brought into the country under the guise of personal baggage. Such practices, according to the FBR, had led to a substantial loss in government revenue and complicated the tax collection process.

Broader Implications for the FBR and Tax Collection

While the FBR’s mobile phone restrictions have been rolled back, the board is still grappling with significant challenges in meeting its tax collection targets. According to the Inland Revenue Service Officers Association (IRSOA), the FBR has struggled to meet its targets due to systemic issues within the organization. The association has blamed poor tax administration and insufficient infrastructure for the ongoing shortfall.

Over the past five months, Pakistan’s tax authorities have faced a Rs 356 billion shortfall in tax collection. The IRSOA argues that many junior field tax officers are underpaid, lack essential resources like transport and fuel, and are frequently transferred to remote locations without adequate support. These factors have led to low morale and inefficiency among tax officials, according to the IRSOA.

Moreover, the frequent transfers and harsh administrative practices have created logistical challenges that have hampered the effective implementation of tax policies. The association has called for better working conditions for tax officers, including improvements in pay, training, and access to essential resources.

The IMF’s Concerns and the Pressure on Pakistan’s Economy

The ongoing difficulties with tax collection have raised concerns among international stakeholders, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF). According to sources, the IMF could demand a mini-budget from Pakistan if the FBR fails to meet its tax collection targets for December. A shortfall in revenue could lead to the implementation of additional austerity measures, further straining the country’s already fragile economy.

Despite the FBR’s efforts to raise tax revenue through new regulations and stricter enforcement measures, the country’s overall tax shortfall stands at Rs 343 billion. This gap has compounded economic difficulties, with rising inflation, high public debt, and a devaluation of the national currency. The inability to meet tax collection targets has also raised questions about the efficacy of the FBR’s transformation plan, which many tax officers and industry experts view as insufficient to address the country’s fiscal problems.

The FBR’s recent decisions—relaxing mobile phone import restrictions while grappling with tax collection shortfalls—highlight the complexities of balancing revenue generation with effective governance. As the board continues to refine its policies, it will be critical for both the government and the public to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that policies support Pakistan’s economic stability and the well-being of its citizens.

For now, international travelers can breathe easier knowing that they are still allowed to bring two mobile phones without facing punitive measures. However, with ongoing challenges surrounding tax collection, the road ahead for the FBR may remain rocky.